Yesterday, I discussed sources that we can use to consume culturally and linguistically diverse research. Many SLPs are also researchers. Today, I will discuss culturally sensitive research practices that will make your research more inclusive.
Historical Perspective for Limited Diversity in Research
In early psychological studies, many psychologists practiced with the idea that all psychological principles are universal, regardless of cultural. Therefore, they did not see a need for research questions that focused on variation in different cultures. Additionally, members of different culturally or ethnic groups often distrust researchers, reasonably so given studies like the Tuskegee Syphilis Study.
There are not many studies as extreme as that one, but it does emphasize the need for quality culturally sensitive research while conducting multicultural studies.
Cultural Sensitivity in Research Questions
Be cautious and intentional when designing questions of comparison of different racial or ethnic groups. In the past, the comparision of ethnic minorities to whites was titled the “comparative research framework”. While these studies can show cultural differences, they portray the idea that whites are the control and other races should be compared to them. Additionally, not all variables in a study may be relevant to every ethnic group.
Fortunately, greater cultural awareness has reduced the use of the comparative research framework. (Cokley & Awad, 2013).
Data Collection, Analysis and Assessment
It is important when designing sampling methods that they are more inclusive. Some studies use a convenience sample, so those who want to participate, do. The groups represented may be more homogenous and exclude many diverse groups that may not have time to dedicate to the research or were not aware of it. To remedy this issue, you can also include subgroups of different identities in your study in which you conduct separate analyses. When we talk about representative samples, this always implies that the findings won’t describe every person in the group they study, and this especially holds true with different cultural groups.
In terms of assessment, culture needs to be considered at each stage of assessment. The measures you develop, the way you administer the test, and how you score and interpret results. Factors that should be considered are racial and ethnic identities, degree of acculturation, generation, socioeconomic status, family, gender identity, disability, religion, neighborhood, language, etc.
Assessment bias can come from stereotyping different aspects of a culture. Read more about identifying your biases here. Be aware and adapt to languages spoken and if a person is not proficient in the language of the study, keep the language more simple and concrete as much as possible, or use translations. Alternatively, find or create a test that uses non-language based knowledge and response methods.
General Recommendations
Make sure your group designs to not indicate the presence of a “better” or “control” racial group like the comparative research framework. Build trust with people of different ethnic identities by being as explicit and understanding as possible with your research study. Answer any questions they have honestly and openly. Consider as many cultural variables as possible. Balance use of qualitative and quantitative data.
